Retin-A

Other names: Tretinoin.

Commonly prescribed for: Retin-A is generally prescribed for treating acute promyelocytic leukemia in people for whom other medications like chemotherapy did not work. This medication can also be used for producing remission. It is commonly used with other medications.

How to take it: Retin-A is available in the form of a capsule to be taken via mouth. This medication is normally taken two times every day for a period of 90 days. Take this medication as prescribed, around the same time daily.

How it works: Retin-A belongs to a group of drugs known as retinoids. This medications works to slow down or thwart the growth of tumor cells by making immature blood cells to turn into normal blood cells.

Side effects: Common side effects include weakness, flushing, extreme tiredness, difficulty urinating, shivering, hallucination, pain, agitation, ear ache, confusion, feeling of fullness, difficulty falling asleep, depression, dry skin, nervousness, rash, tingling in the hands, hair loss, dizziness constipation, bone pain, diarrhea, weight loss, stomach pain, and loss of appetite. Some serious side effects include headache, infections, nausea, bleeding, vomiting, hearing loss, blurred or double vision, irregular heartbeat, unusual bleeding or bruising, and tarry tools.